A Resolution Worth Keeping

We’re a quarter of the way through 2017 and most of us abandoned our New Year’s resolutions weeks ago. According to U.S. News, approximately 80 percent of resolutions fail by mid-February.

We’re a quarter of the way through 2017 and most of us abandoned our New Year’s resolutions weeks ago. According to U.S. News, approximately 80 percent of resolutions fail by mid-February. Most resolutions pursue external results—building muscle, losing weight, getting a better job. We often aim to improve something about the way we look or how others view us. However, research shows that many resolutions fail because they’re too unrealistic or not as fulfilling as expected.

The great thing about resolutions is that you can make them any time. Instead of mourning your failed attempt and waiting another year to make the next, take the opportunity to start again and make a resolution worth keeping. Try this one: Be kind to yourself.

Rather than focusing on all the things about yourself that you want to fix or improve, make a concerted effort to celebrate and appreciate the things that make you unique. Your smile, your eyes, your voice. Your passions, your emotions, your personality. Being kind to yourself instead of being hard on yourself can have a positive impact on your self-esteem, your relationships and your overall happiness.

Here are some habits you can implement to show yourself a little more love.

Take care of yourself. Being kind to yourself starts with taking good care of yourself, inside and out. Be sure to get enough rest, eat nourishing foods, and keep your body moving. Establish a good hygiene routine, and use quality products to care for your hair, skin and uniquely beautiful smile.

Make time for yourself. Regularly set aside time to do something you love or find fulfilling. Perhaps it’s playing or listening to music, doing yoga, drawing or reading a book. Whatever it is that brings you joy, make it a priority to weave it in to your daily life. Most importantly, don’t allow yourself to feel guilty for doing it!

Believe in yourself. Take time every day to appreciate yourself. Be your own biggest cheerleader, your number one fan, and strive to focus on the unique things that make you who you are. Accept your weaknesses, celebrate your strengths, and lift yourself up with positive affirmations.

Learning to be kind to yourself instead of constantly looking for things to “fix” will bring more positivity into your life and help you feel like the best version of yourself.